ESCRH's second edition of Relais pour la vie amassed $38,000 in funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. In this picture, we see cancer survivors (wearing yellow) joining the walk for the cause. (Photo credit: Cedrik Bertrand)

Community Building

ESCRH Relay for life amasses $38,000 at its second edition

By Cedrik Bertrand

May 29, 2018

Inspired by the success of last year’s event, École secondaire catholique régionale de Hawkesbury (ESCRH) hosted its second edition of Relais pour la vie (Relay for life) on Friday, May 25, 2018.

“Last year, we had 16 teams and approximately 160 participants. This year, we had 25 teams and 240 participants,” said Liza Sutherland, ESCRH teacher and event organizer.

The event is primarily a fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society.

“The event is getting bigger and bigger. Last year, our objective was $20,000 and we amassed $33,000. This year, our objective was $24,000 and we managed to get $38,000,” proudly said Sutherland.

Thomas Boucher, father of event organizer Liza Sutherland, once again had his long, white mane shaved for the cause. (Photo credit: Cedrik Bertrand)

The event lasts almost 12 hours and features activities like sports, walks, BBQs and live music. According to Sutherland, student and community participation is very high.

“There’s also a students VS teachers softball game. That always draws a crowd!”

Relay for life is true to its name. Even though inspired by cancer and the impact it had on so many lives, Sutherland reminds us that the event is first and foremost about life; about surviving and hope.

“Twenty cancer survivors came to the event to walk with us. We often associated death with cancer, but thanks to research and events like these, people can fight and even overcome. It’s a beautiful message of hope!”

Decibel, a band composed of ESRCH students, was the first to get on stage for an evening of live music. (Photo credit: Cedrik Bertrand)

New local rock band Prospect Nelson joined the festivities with a full set of original material. (Photo credit: Cedrik Bertrand)